In particular, Russia suffers from two key weaknesses: demographics and an over-dependence on oil and natural gas. The future projections of Russia's population are astonishing. Thanks to emigration, a remarkable number of abortions and low life expectancy caused by alcohol abuse on a vast scale, Russia's population falls by about 800,000 every year. By 2050, Russia's population will have fallen from its present level of 142 million to below 100 million. Vast areas of the country will be entirely free of people.

I think that demographics are the key to national power. If your population is falling, then you are doomed to long-term national decline. I cannot think of an example in history when a country on an upward trajectory when it comes to national standing and power has managed to combine this with a falling population. But perhaps I am wrong. Can anyone think of an historical parallel?